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By Nancy Kriz

CENTRAL VALLEY — A shift from the current side of Route 32 to the newly constructed side of Route 32 will occur during the week of Dec. 17, the latest changes in the ongoing Route 17 at Route 32 Exit 131 construction project.

Both northbound and southbound traffic will move from the current lanes (closer to the Woodbury Common Premium Outlets) to the newly built roadway and bridge (closer to Central Valley Elementary).

The number of lanes on Route 32 will remain the same and additional signage will be in place to guide motorists through the new traffic pattern, according to the New York State Department of Transportation (DOT).

Ongoing construction activities in this area will continue over the coming months.

On Route 17, the left lane is a dedicated through-lane from Exit 130 eastbound to the New York State Thruway toll booths. Eastbound traffic on Route 17 will remain shifted onto the paved median to maintain a safe and unobstructed work zone. Local traffic should continue to use the right lane only as exits are not permitted from the left lane.

Look for new signageIn addition, the Route 17 westbound ramp from Route 32 northbound will be relocated north of the Route 6 overpass.

The new traffic pattern is expected to be in place during the week of Dec. 17. Additional signage will be in place to guide travelers through the new traffic pattern.

The road shifts are part of the overall construction project, which features a diverging diamond interchange.

This design is intended to offer improved access to schools, retail establishments, highways and local roads in addition to improved travel time and safety.